November 2011

Dear Friends,

All of us can use a helping hand every now and then. Whether we are experiencing the joyous birth of a child or a sorrowful death in our family, an intense illness, a military deployment, a period of being housebound or in the hospital or another type of hardship, some support and an act of kindness can make all the difference.

In a behind-the-scenes way, Congregation Adat Reyim, our “Community of Friends,” has had a functioning Caring Committee for several years. When Rabbi Aft or the office staff has been made aware of a situation that could use help, we have reached out and drawn on our resources to coordinate the effort necessary to provide assistance.

As our congregation ages, there will naturally be more people that will be needing help, and it is felt that it is important, as a “Community of Friends,” that the congregation ensures it has the ability to extend support through these life events and trying times. We also wish to do a better job at celebrating and marking the joys in life, too – the birth of children and grandchildren, milestone anniversaries and birthdays, graduations, etc.

Therefore, as we begin the New Year, we are reaching out to the entire congregation in this letter with the hope and wish that the mitzvah of caring for our congregants be spread among more than just a few. If you are interested in being a part of the Caring Committee, please fill out and submit the online form. If you have any questions, please contact the Caring Committee at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it   or call (703) 569-7577.

Thank you in advance for your help.

Lenny Marsh

President